Lee: Vote to drive reform and help HK fire victims

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu exercised his democratic right on Sunday, December 7, 2025, casting his ballot in the eighth Legislative Council General Election. Following his vote at Raimondi College polling station in Mid-Levels, Lee issued a compelling appeal to all eligible voters across the special administrative region to participate in the electoral process.

The Chief Executive emphasized the critical importance of selecting representatives committed to driving substantive reform while simultaneously addressing the urgent needs of victims affected by last month’s devastating Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po. The tragic incident, which claimed at least 159 lives, has highlighted the necessity for robust legislative support and systemic improvements.

Lee praised the electoral arrangements implemented for this election, noting his voting experience was both ‘convenient and smooth.’ Special provisions included dedicated polling stations and an extended two-hour voting period designed to maximize public participation in the democratic process.

In a significant commitment, the Chief Executive announced his intention to propose a comprehensive disaster relief motion during the inaugural session of the newly elected Legislative Council. This initiative aims to establish collaborative mechanisms between the executive and legislative branches to support affected residents through accelerated recovery and reconstruction efforts.

‘The first meeting of the Legislative Council will prioritize discussions on supporting disaster victims,’ Lee stated. ‘We will engage in consultations with lawmakers promptly to ascertain truth expeditiously and facilitate efficient recovery operations.’

The election represents a pivotal moment for Hong Kong’s governance framework, balancing long-term reform objectives with immediate humanitarian response requirements following one of the territory’s most devastating residential fires in recent history.